ZDHC Foundation has published two impactful documents, the Recycled Polyester Guidelines V1.0 and the Industry Standard Implementation Approach V1.0, aiming to enhance transparency and sustainability in the production of recycled polyester.
The global shift toward recycled polyester is significant, with usage increasing by 3.5% in 2023 to 8.9 million tonnes. These guidelines respond to the growing demand for sustainable practices, addressing chemical management requirements for bottle-to-textile and textile-to-textile recycling processes.
The guidelines, structured into three chapters, focus on critical areas of the production process:
- Input Management – Outlining standards for the quality of bottle and textile feedstock and the chemicals used during recycling.
- Process Management – Highlighting best practices for chemical recovery, safe storage, and handling to protect workers.
- Output Management – Defining methods to minimize wastewater, sludge, and air emissions during recycled polyester fiber production.
ZDHC emphasizes that these guidelines set clear expectations for stakeholders across the textile industry. Brands are encouraged to incorporate the guidelines into their supply chain strategies, sharing them with suppliers to promote alignment with sustainability goals. Suppliers are urged to study the requirements and implement relevant practices, while solution providers are advised to evaluate and adopt the testing methods and limits outlined in the document.
These new frameworks are expected to foster greater accountability and transparency in recycled polyester production, contributing to the global movement toward a more sustainable textile industry.
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